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Last updated on Monday, August 14, 2017
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Pres. Trump declared a national emergency Thursday concerning the existing and growing opioid epidemic.
The money could go to programs to help people quit and to equip more emergency responders with Narcan to help save the lives of people who have overdosed.
"I am in strong agreement of the President's declaration of the opioid crisis as a national emergency," said Rep. Susan Brooks (R-5th Dist.).
"Too many lives have been lost to this sweeping epidemic in Indiana and across the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), recent data estimates the opioid epidemic is taking the lives of 142 Americans every single day. That number of lives lost is devastating."
The declaration comes after a recommendation by Trumps commission on drugs.
"Today's declaration will further put a spotlight on an issue that deserves urgent attention and ensures that combating this epidemic is a national priority for the country," said Brooks.
Sen. Joe Donnelly, a Democrat, gave Trump's action a thumbs up.
"I am pleased that President Trump plans to declare the opioid epidemic a national emergency. We know that it will take all of us working together to effectively turn the tide against this public health crisis that has harmed so many families in Indiana and across the country. I hope this declaration will lead to necessary, additional resources for states and local communities to ensure those battling substance use disorders can access treatment," he said.
Donnelly introduced legislation recently to make treatment more easily available to people who are addicted.
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